New York Birth Doula & Hospital Guide
Birth support resources for 4 cities across New York. Doula costs range from $1,000 to $5,000, and we've got the Medicaid details, hospital info, and local doula listings for each one. Pick your city below to dive in.
$1,000–$5,000
Doula cost range in New York
Yes
Medicaid covers doulas
4
Cities covered
17
Hospitals listed
Does Medicaid Cover a Doula in New York?
Yes. New York implemented Medicaid coverage for doula services starting in 2019, making it one of the early adopters. The New York State Department of Health (DOH) administers the benefit through both fee-for-service and managed care Medicaid. The doula benefit covers up to 4 prenatal visits, 1 labor and delivery support visit, and 4 postpartum visits. Doulas must complete a state-approved doula training program and enroll as Medicaid providers. New York has been particularly active in expanding doula access as part of its broader maternal health strategy, motivated by persistent maternal mortality disparities. The New York State Doula Pilot Program, initially launched in Erie County and Brooklyn/Kings County in 2018, preceded the statewide benefit rollout. Families should ask their doula whether they are enrolled as a New York State Medicaid provider.
For the full breakdown of which states cover doulas and how to get coverage, see our Medicaid doula coverage guide.
NY Medicaid doula coverage launched in January 2024 and is rolling out across the Capital Region. New York also now requires commercial insurance plans to cover doula services. check with your employer plan or individual insurance for benefit details.
Doula Licensing & Regulations in New York
New York does not require a state doula license for all doulas. However, to serve Medicaid clients, doulas must complete training from a state-approved doula training program and enroll as Medicaid providers through the NY State DOH. New York maintains a roster of approved doula training programs. There is no state doula licensing board for non-Medicaid doulas; they operate as community professionals. DONA International, Ancient Song Doula Services, and other organizations provide widely recognized doula certifications. New York licenses Certified Professional Midwives (CPMs) through the New York State Board of Midwifery (effective 2023 legislation), and Certified Nurse Midwives (CNMs) through the New York State Education Department's Office of the Professions.
Birth in New York
New York Birth Statistics: By the Numbers
33%
Cesarean section rate
14.2
Maternal deaths per 100k live births
0.5%
Home birth rate
0.2%
Birth center birth rate
Source: CDC NCHS, National Vital Statistics System (2022 data)
Common Questions
New York Doula FAQ
Does New York Medicaid cover doula services?
Yes. New York has covered doula services through Medicaid since 2019. The benefit covers up to 4 prenatal visits, 1 labor support visit, and 4 postpartum visits. Doulas must be enrolled as Medicaid providers; ask your doula whether they are enrolled.
Do I need a license to practice as a doula in New York?
No state license is required for all doulas, but to serve Medicaid clients, doulas must complete a state-approved training program and enroll as Medicaid providers. For private-pay clients, voluntary certification through DONA International or similar organizations is widely recognized.
Does New York license Certified Professional Midwives (CPMs)?
Yes. Following legislation enacted in 2023, New York licenses Certified Professional Midwives through the New York State Board of Midwifery. Certified Nurse Midwives (CNMs) are separately licensed through the Office of the Professions. Doulas are not licensed midwives; they provide non-clinical support.
What is the maternal mortality rate in New York?
New York's maternal mortality rate is approximately 14.2 deaths per 100,000 live births (CDC NCHS, 2022 data). New York has been particularly active in expanding doula access as part of its maternal health strategy to address persistent disparities.
Cities in New York
Find Your City in New York
Select your city to see local doula costs, Medicaid details, hospital info, and birth center options.
Prepare for Your Birth in New York
No matter which New York city you're in, the free Joyful Birth Plan walks you through every decision: who's in the room, pain management preferences, and what matters most to you.
Related Resources
Free downloadable birth plan for any hospital
What doulas do, how they help, and whether you need one
How doulas improve birth outcomes and reduce anxiety
What doulas cost, what's included, and how to pay
Which states cover doulas and how to get coverage
How to plan for a hospital birth and advocate for your preferences